SeaWorld is home to many finned, feathered and furry fathers that have had a role in more than 18,000 animals born or hatched at our parks over four decades. This year, SeaWorld announces our “Best Dad” award recipient, Simon the otter, in this heartwarming video, and also the runner-ups in a fun sheet dads and kids can read together.

SeaWorld animal care specialists are a little bleary-eyed this week as they provide 24-hour care for a weeks-old, baby manatee. Orphaned by her mother, the female calf arrived at the park's rehabilitation center on July 24 after being rescued from the waters of Daytona Beach, Fla.